Phoenix has been described as a very new city with a very old soul. With an emerging downtown and a strong sense of community and a growing culinary and arts scene, the Valley of the Sun is reaching new heights. From fine dining in high-end bistros to dining al fresco Phoenix dining scene has something for everybody. Phoenix has become noticed for making great strides in gastronomy and has shaken off the stereotype of being dominated by Tex-Mex food and chain restaurants. The city has become as much of a cultural hotspot as New York or Los Angeles, with a distinctly Southwestern accent.